The number of unemployed people in Aiken County doubled in a year. Here's why.

The number of unemployed people in Aiken County has more than doubled in a year, according to latest data provided by the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. Specifically, 4,183 people are unemployed according to a survey performed by the Census Bureau and reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce . In August 2023, 2,049 people were unemployed.

Aiken County Farmers Market to celebrate 70th anniversary The data shows a record number of people in South Carolina are in the labor force — South Carolina was the fastest growing state last year — which is good news for increasing the labor force participation rate, Department of Employment and Workforce Executive Director William Floyd said. "It also represents a unique challenge," Floyd continued in a news release . Some of the new members of the workforce found jobs in fields like construction, healthcare, social assistance and professional services.



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Aiken County's unemployment rate was 5.5% in August — it was 2.8% in August 2023 — according to the data.

“This unemployment rate is well within the range of historic norms, and there is no evidence of increased layoff activity in the state as measured by initial claims for unemployment benefits," Floyd said. "Actual claims for unemployment benefits are comparable to or even lower so far in 2024 than levels in 2023." 'Corn in their boots:' Titan Farms introduces Sara's Farm Adventure There are more than 70,000 open jobs in the Palmetto State as of Sept.

20, Floyd continued. However, it will take time for the labor market to absorb the increased number of jobseekers, he added. This is why the department provides multiple ways for jobseekers to find employment including in-person and virtual job fairs and hiring events, Floyd said.

Aiken could be getting three gas stations. Where will they be? For more information about finding a job or upcoming hiring events, visit dew.sc.

gov/individuals/find-job ..